It is a common
knowledge attributing current Nigerian social, political and economic setbacks
to 1914 unpopular British amalgamation of Northern and Southern protectorate of
Nigeria into one entity. There is no need stretching it too far because there
is a correlation between the amalgamation and current Nigeria problems.
However, the former cannot fully explain the later.
Nigeria is a
country made up with tremendous diversity in religion, ethnicity, language and
or virtually every aspect of life. These may be the source of social, economic
and political challenges facing the progress of the country.
Giant of Africa
(Nigeria) as it is called or use to be is a great country blessed with numerous
natural resources (Human, Agriculture, Coal, Crude oil etc) that have the
potential to make any nation great in all aspect of life. Yet, Nigeria is still battling with
rudimentary aspect of development when countries such as Ghana, South Africa
and Indonesia have overtaken us; not to mention those like Brazil, China and
India.
Virtually all
parts of the country or structures are facing developmental challenges that
other competitors (other countries) has overcome or controlling such as endemic
corruption, massive unemployment,
terrorism, kidnapping, leadership crisis etc; yet Nigerians are still
asking questions that suggests we are not even close to development path. This
leads to questions bothering on the minds of well meaning Nigerians such as:
Why can’t Nigeria develop like other developing Third World Countries? Is it
the cause of the British colonialist? Are we better off in ‘One Nigeria’ or
should we dissolve like old Soviet Union? Are we in the right path of
development juxtaposed with other developing countries? Is ethnicity,
ethnocentrism, culture, religion etc more off a problem to us than blessing?
Are we practicing the best government structure for us; in terms of True
Federalism, Presidential System of Government, Quota System, Federal Character
etc or does it reflect selfish interest of a region or minority elite group? Do
we lose hope in Nigeria or are there solutions to our problems?
It is in the
light of the above that makes it most expedient for national dialogue. When
Nigeria was amalgamated in 1914, there was no political party and if this
coming national conference must succeed, it should not be seen as a conference
of political parties but a conference of ethnic nationalities that make up
Nigeria. Also there shall not be a ‘no go areas’; as everything that needs
attention must be discussed including national unity.
The problem with
Nigeria is not formulation of policies or constitution of committees or
conference but implementation of the outcome of such gathering. This is why the
outcome of this conference must not be subjected to the approval of National
Assembly before it becomes a law; rather a referendum should be conducted for
the people to make their choice. This was done in Sudan and soon Scotland will
do theirs. The case of Nigeria cannot be different…enough is enough is time
Nigerians take their future into their hands.
